The Crochet Comeback: Why Our Grandmas Were Onto Something
Crochet is having a serious moment—but for many of us, it never left. It lived in the corners of our grandmothers’ homes, in plastic bins full of colorful yarn, in afghans that never seemed to unravel no matter how many times they were washed. It lived in our culture, in our hands, in our stories. And now? It’s making a comeback in the boldest, most beautiful way.
This post dives deep into why crochet is re-emerging with new energy, how Black and Brown communities are reclaiming the art form, and why our grandmothers were absolutely right to keep that hook in hand.
A Legacy Stitched in Time
Crochet has long been passed down from generation to generation. For many Black families, it was more than a hobby. It was a way to clothe babies, comfort loved ones, and express creativity. In times when access to resources was limited, crochet offered a sense of control, usefulness, and artistry.
Our grandmothers and great-grandmothers used whatever yarn they could find. They repurposed scraps, created masterpieces without patterns, and added love into every single stitch. What they created wasn’t just practical—it was sacred.
Recommended reading: "Threads of Time: The Fabric of Black Women’s Lives" by Rosemary E. Reed Miller
Reclaiming the Craft
Today, a new generation of Black and Brown creators are breathing life back into crochet with cultural pride and innovation. From Instagram reels to TikTok tutorials, crochet is being shared like never before. Young makers are combining tradition with bold color palettes, modern patterns, and unapologetic self-expression.
Crochet is no longer viewed as just a "grandma hobby"—it's an art form, a business, a source of healing, and a movement. We are reclaiming it, remixing it, and honoring our elders in the process.
Why the Comeback Now?
There are a few reasons crochet is experiencing such a strong resurgence:
The Pandemic Pause: When the world slowed down, people reached for something grounding. Crochet offered comfort, creativity, and calm.
Mental Health Awareness: Studies show that repetitive handwork, like crochet and knitting, helps reduce stress and anxiety. Source: Mayo Clinic Health System
A Need for Representation: Black and Brown fiber artists have created safe spaces, groups (like The Black Crochet Group!), and businesses that center our stories and styles.
Social Media Visibility: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have amplified the voices and work of BIPOC makers like never before.
Passing the Hook: Keeping the Tradition Alive
If your grandmother or auntie taught you to crochet, you hold a legacy in your hands. If you’re just learning now, you’re part of that legacy too. One of the most powerful things we can do is teach others—our children, our friends, our community. It keeps the tradition alive while allowing space for it to grow.
Here are a few ways to honor and continue the legacy:
Document Stories: Ask elders about what they used to make and why.
Use Heirloom Hooks or Yarn: Create new pieces using tools that belonged to your family.
Join Cultural Craft Groups: Be in spaces where you feel seen and celebrated.
Share What You Learn: Post online, teach others, host local events.
Final Thoughts: Crochet Is Cultural Power
Our Ancestors weren’t just passing the time—they were preserving a part of us. Their hooks held history, survival, joy, and resilience. As we reclaim crochet in modern times, we're not just making scarves or sweaters. We're making statements.
We honor them every time we pick up a hook. We speak through our stitches. And most importantly, we continue the story they started.
So next time someone calls crochet old-fashioned, tell them this:
"My Ancestors were trendsetters. And now? So am I."
We want to hear from you! Who taught you how to crochet? What legacy are you continuing with every stitch? Drop a comment below and share your story with us. Let’s celebrate our fiber roots together!
